Col. Rutley speaks to Vietnam vets

Col. William Rutley is shown here (seated on the left) speaking with veterans Frank Reale (center) and Joe Davis.

Col. William Rutley, past commander of Arnold A.F.B., Tullahoma, was the speaker of the recent meeting of the Vietnam Era Veterans at the American Legion Post #23 in Shelbyville.

Col. Rutley spoke of his career in the military since the early 1970s, as a navigator and other positions involving fighter aircraft, such as the F-4 Phantom among others. Col. Rutley was a pilot, navigator and flight instructor of many other military aircraft.

“Israeli pilots are very skilled flying F-15E fighter aircraft,” said Col. Rutley, instructor to these pilots.

Col. Rutley had more than 25 years’ experience in leadership position as an officer in the U. S. Air Force. He retired as a full colonel, which military people like to call “Full Bird“ because of the eagle insignia in which they wear designating their military rank.

The next meeting of the Vietnam Era Veterans will be Thursday, March 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the American Legion Post #23. The featured speaker will be Jose Melecio (Ret., U.S. Air Force). Local veterans are invited to attend.